Council leader relishing EMCCA deputy mayor role

The leader of Derby City Council has said she is looking forward to supporting the East Midlands Mayor’s vision for inclusive growth for the region after being selected as her deputy.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, who is also portfolio holder for city centre, regeneration, culture and tourism at the city council, has been chosen by East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward for the post of Deputy Mayor at the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

She will support Mayor Claire in her efforts to make the region more prosperous, sustainable and fairer, as well as help people and businesses to create and seize opportunities.

Nadine said: “I’m honoured and delighted to be selected by Mayor Claire to be her Deputy Mayor.

“We are at a pivotal moment in the East Midlands where we are poised to gain the recognition and investment that we deserve.

“I look forward to supporting Mayor Claire in her inclusive growth vision for the region.

“This is great news for Derby too and I will be advocating for the regional investment and national recognition that we deserve!”

Nadine’s position of Deputy Mayor was confirmed following a meeting of the EMCCA board earlier this week.

At that meeting a number of portfolio leads and deputies were also confirmed.

They will each be responsible for leading a number of key priority areas for the region, working with the Mayor and their board colleagues.

Derby City Council’s deputy leader Paul Hezelgrave will lead on skills and employment.

Other leaders taking on roles include the leader of Derbyshire County Council, Barry Lewis, will lead on farming and rural affairs.

Mayor Claire said: “Making this region the best place to live, to work and to learn is a real team effort across political boundaries and I’m delighted that board colleagues will be working with me to deliver real change.

“I’m also delighted that Nadine has agreed to step up to the role of Deputy Mayor.

“She’ll be supporting me to drive and lead our work and will be doing this without any extra pay for what will be a demanding role because she’s so passionate about the opportunities ahead for our region.”